June 4, 2014 - Written by: Emily Macdonald

Dancing in the Rain

‘Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass… It’s about learning to dance in the rain’.

When you’re in a storm in life, it’s easy for others to quote the above words of wisdom, I mean they’re beautiful, aren’t they? But while dancing in the rain sounds poetic when the waters are calm, it’s much easier said than done. This saying conquers images of gentle rain and soft winds in your hair, but are a few rain drops what really makes a storm? No. A storm is torrential thunderstorms and floods, the hail stinging your eyes and the wind blowing you off your feet. Dancing in that sort of storm is impossible, remaining Zen when your life feels as though it is falling apart is not as easy as shoving on your dancing shoes and doing a little jig, it’s about remaining steadfast. So this month, after hitting a tempest of my own, I’m looking at what it really means to dance.

(Image via)

The calm before the storm.

You know when there’s something brewing, those dark clouds on the horizon and that gentle tapping at your door. It would be easier to stay inside, most people do, avoid what’s coming, buckle down in our safe haven and wait for it to go away.

But sometimes in life we need to get out there.

I felt a confrontation brewing. I ignored it as long as possible, trying to avoid heartache and knowing the the fall out could be catastrophic but sharing what was on my mind was a necessity; how could I be true to myself knowing someone was slowly chipping away at my life, my confidence and my self-esteem. For years it was easier to ignore the tapping at my door. But the storm was coming too close, I couldn’t let it destroy me, I had to face it.

There’s a lot of guilt that comes with stepping outside your home. You’re facing the oncoming wind and you can’t help but feel as though you’re putting yourself in a dangerous position. But this decision is like choosing your own music, and we all know it’s easier to dance to a piece you have picked out yourself.

You wouldn’t consciously walk into a rainstorm without being prepared, and it’s the same with the trials we face in life.

We can all think of friends who are great company when the sea is calm but at the merest hint of a cloud go AWOL on us. Forging genuine friendships in life is vital, they provide the umbrella and shelter we need when times get tough, holding it open to them when they’re having a hard time and being a good friend can make all the difference when you’re in need yourself. No woman is an island, right? If we were, the storm would wipe us away. Friendships are like foundations and, believe me, you’re gonna need deep roots when the winds pick up; you’re not dancing as such, you’re swaying in the wind, comforted knowing those who care are keeping you grounded. Whilst everything else can feel it’s being ripped away, you’re safe and you’re supported.

When the storm is over the landscape looks different, things have changed, you have changed, you can walk along the path and see the houses where people are safe inside, they haven’t left their comfort zone, but they also haven’t grown, they can’t see the raging colours of the sky (or that cheesy rainbow) neither can they feel the relief in knowing it’s over.

No matter how difficult it has been, dancing in the rain has changed you. You’re stronger, more prepared for next time and you have preserved yourself. These storms aren’t easy. They will test you to the limits; but, ultimately, facing your fears is the only way you’ll know you’re strong enough to overcome them.

If you enjoyed this article, why not check out ‘Brave Heart‘?